How to Use Ratchet Straps: Common questions asked

Whether you’re moving goods across the country, securing a load in a van, or strapping down equipment on-site, ratchet straps are one of the simplest and most effective tools you can own. Strong, reusable and quick to use, they’re the standard choice in logistics, transport, construction, agriculture, and more. 

But here’s the thing: despite being everywhere, one of the most common questions people still ask is “how do I use ratchet straps?” 

This guide covers exactly that. We’ll walk through threading, tightening, and releasing straps properly, explain how they work, and share some safety tips so you can use them with confidence. 

https://youtu.be/SSCClxq6Z-g

🔹 What Are Ratchet Straps? 

Ratchet straps (also called tie down straps) are made from high-strength polyester webbing with a ratchet handle and end fittings such as hooks or D-rings. 

They’re designed to: 

Secure loads against movement in transit 

Apply consistent tension without slipping 

Hold until deliberately released 

Compared with rope or bungee cords, ratchet straps give you far greater tension and reliability. That’s why they’re the go-to across fleets, warehouses, and worksites. 

🔹 How Do Ratchet Straps Work? 

The ratchet handle uses a simple gear and pawl system. Each pump of the handle winds the webbing tighter around the central spindle, while the pawl locks it in place. 

This means: 

The strap only tightens when you want it to 

It won’t slip under load 

It stays locked until you release it 

🔹 How to Thread a Ratchet Strap 

Before you can tighten, you need to thread the strap correctly: 

Open the ratchet handle fully so it lies flat. 

Feed the webbing through the slot in the centre spindle (from underneath). 

Pull the webbing through until the excess slack is gone. 

Keep the strap flat, no twists. 

🔹 How to Tighten a Ratchet Strap 

Attach the strap ends securely to anchor points. 

Pull the webbing by hand to remove slack. 

Pump the ratchet handle up and down. Each motion winds the strap tighter. 

Stop once the load feels firm and stable, overtightening can damage cargo or anchor points. 

🔹 How to Release a Ratchet Strap 

Pull and hold the small release catch inside the handle. 

Open the handle completely flat. 

The mechanism disengages and frees the webbing. 

Pull the strap out of the spindle and remove it. 

🔹 Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Twisting the strap: weakens the hold and damages webbing. 

Overtightening: risks bending frames or damaging cargo. 

Poor anchor points: the strap is only as strong as what it’s hooked to. 

Leaving loose webbing: always tie off spare strap so it doesn’t flap. 

🔹 Where Are Ratchet Straps Used? 

Ratchet straps are essential across: 

Fleet & haulage: flatbeds, curtain siders, mixed pallets 

Logistics & delivery vans: cages, crates, bulky parcels 

Construction: scaffolding, plant, materials 

Agriculture: bales, feed, machinery 

Marine & automotive: motorbikes, cars, boats 

Anywhere loads need to stay put, ratchet straps are the answer. 

https://youtu.be/DOYUXD9xStc